Are You Really Ready to Move to Mexico?

It’s easy to understand why.  Beautiful beaches, lush jungles, friendly people, great food, warm climate, safe environment, excellent health care, lower cost of living….the list is long.  But as most expats will also tell you, moving to Mexico is not the same as a week-long vacation.

For many foreigners who move to Mexico, the relaxed Mexican attitude about schedules and punctuality that can be charming and funny while on vacation, can be downright aggravating when you are actually living her and waiting, say, for the cable guy to arrive….for the third day in a row.  There is no solution other than just give in and don’t expect your own cultural sense of time to apply as it will only lead to frustration. The cable guy will arrive eventually and in all likelihood, he’ll be friendly and jovial enough to make you forget that you were irritated.  In truth, probably the best general rule for living in Banderas Bay is remembering that you have chosen to live in another country and another culture, for better and sometimes for worse, so working within the cultural framework of Mexico and letting go of some of your presumptions and expectations is probably the best step towards long-term happiness.

Learn some Spanish.  It’s easy to be lazy about this because English is so widely spoken in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.  But even having a simple understanding of the language will not only make you feel more confident in your day to day life in Banderas Bay, but it will make you feel connected to your community.   In fact, having a sense of belonging is extremely important when moving internationally to combat feelings of isolation or homesickness.  Be socially active, volunteer, join an activity group….not only will you feel connected to your community but your life will become richer and more satisfying.

Ready to make the move?  Talk to your Luxury Beach concierge who will be great resource for Spanish schools, finding social and altruistic groups in the Banderas Bay area, explaining social and cultural customs and offering other support and resources to help you transition to life in your new country.